Chocolaterie Maison Duplanteur, Provence Travel Guide

A Chocolate Manufacture in Perfume Country

Located at 22 Rue Marcel Journet in the heart of historic Grasse, Maison Duplanteur stands as the sole chocolate manufacture on the French Riviera. Founded in 2015 by Dominique Flavio, this artisanal chocolaterie has rapidly established itself as a premier destination for chocolate enthusiasts and culinary professionals alike. The location itself is strategic—positioned in Grasse's pedestrian zone, surrounded by the city's legendary perfume houses, yet distinguished by its own distinctive aroma of roasted cacao beans that draws visitors from the street.

Bean-to-Bar Mastery and Craftsmanship

The manufacture controls every stage of chocolate production, from cacao bean selection through final tasting. The process encompasses ten distinct steps: hand-sorting of beans, roasting, crushing, conching, and aging. All products are 100% natural, organic, and certified bio, with no artificial preservatives or gluten. The chocolaterie sources single-origin cacao from diverse regions including Sierra Leone, Bali, Cameroon, and Peru, allowing visitors to taste the terroir differences in each origin. The signature tonka bean tablet represents the house's commitment to quality and innovation, incorporating tonka—an essential component in Grasse's perfume industry.

Guided Tours and Workshop Experience

Free guided tours invite visitors into the working workshops, where they can observe artisans and machinery transforming raw cacao into finished chocolate. Tours are brief but comprehensive, covering the complete manufacturing journey and providing insight into the technical expertise required. The experience is enhanced by the sensory immersion of the workshop environment, where the aroma of roasting cacao and the sight of production machinery create an authentic behind-the-scenes atmosphere.

Signature Products and Innovations

Beyond traditional chocolates, Maison Duplanteur has pioneered a distinctive local specialty: pâtes de fleurs (flower pastes). Created using the mucilage from fresh cacao beans combined with Grasse's renowned perfume flowers, these artisanal confections offer a subtle, delicate flavor profile. Available varieties include rose de Damas, lavender, orange blossom, calendula, poppy, jasmine, violet, cornflower, hibiscus, and verbena. Each paste is hand-finished with individual flowers after infusion. The shop also offers assorted chocolate bonbons, chocolate bars, and exclusive chocolate renderings of Grasse's coat of arms.

Tasting and Retail Experience

The boutique serves house-made chocolate mousse (available in small and large portions with customizable toppings) and offers tastings of various chocolate creations. The shop's location on a pedestrian street in the historic center ensures easy access and visibility. Products are available for purchase, from individual chocolates to curated gift boxes of flower pastes. The chocolaterie's products have gained recognition among regional Michelin-starred chefs, including Chef Mauro Colagreco of Le Mirazur, who incorporates Maison Duplanteur chocolates into his cuisine.

Location and Accessibility

Situated in Grasse's historic center, the manufacture benefits from proximity to public transportation, with bus stops and a coach station within 500 meters. The pedestrian zone location makes it easily accessible for both residents and tourists exploring the city's perfume heritage. The shop's prominent position on Rue Marcel Journet, combined with the unmistakable aroma of roasting cacao, makes it a natural discovery point for visitors navigating Grasse's medieval streets.